Surrey professor honoured for contributions to veterinary education
Professor Roberto La Ragione.
University of Surrey Professor Roberto La Ragione has received a prestigious RCVS award for his contributions to veterinary research and education.
Professor La Ragione received an Honorary Associateship of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons during the RCVS virtual awards evening on Thursday (10 September). The award is bestowed to individuals who have made a considerable impact on the veterinary profession.
With a PhD on the pathogenesis of E. coli infection in poultry, Professor La Ragione is an international authority on veterinary microbiology. He has published extensively in the area of host-microbe interactions, with a particular emphasis on foodborne pathogens and antimicrobial resistance.
Professor La Ragione joined the University of Surrey from the APHA in 2009 and was later appointed Professor of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology. He was instrumental in setting up the School of Veterinary Medicine, of which he is deputy head, which recently received RCVS accreditation.
Commenting on his award, Professor Roberto La Ragione said: “I am delighted to have received this prestigious award. Combining my interests in veterinary research and education has been a career highlight for me, and I am pleased my work has been recognised in this way.”
Dr Daniel Horton MRCVS, who nominated Professor La Ragione for the award, said: “Very few veterinary scientists, who have made such outstanding contributions to research, have also simultaneously been so instrumental in shaping veterinary education. His commitment to nurturing emerging talent is manifest in the 25 plus PhD students he has mentored.”
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
